Spring break: off the beaten path recommendations

This year, almost every school district has Spring Break at the same time. That means one thing: Crowds.

Unless you've already planned your trip to Disney, or the slopes, you'll be like me - looking for ways to entertain the kids without hitting the crowded spots. We'll be staying away from the usual suspects (the zoo, museum, aquarium - unless you go early), but put together a list of off the beaten path activities to consider! Of course, we still recommend you call ahead!

SundayHead over to Colorado Mills where they're building a huge LEGO map of the United States! There will be building competitions, free LEGO giveaways, raffles and the opportunity to create a large-scale model with hundreds of other builders. Everyone who participates will also receive a free LEGO Certificate of Achievement, while supplies last.
Sunday, March 25 – 11:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Monday

Take advantage of the warm weather! Pack a lunch, get on your bikes and ride out to Bluff Lake for the one mile hike around the lake. Perfect for little legs, lots to look at, bugs and birds and sometimes rabbits, in an enclosed space.

Tuesday

Join the Colorado Children's Campaign, Lt Governor Joe Garcia and community leaders to release 2012 KIDS COUNT in Colorado and take a guided Legislative tour of the Capitol. Attendees will meet a legislator, go to the Senate and House, briefly hear how a bill becomes law, and learn a little about the history of the Capitol building. The tour is 45 mins. Space is limited, please RSVP with number of attendees by March 26 to kristy@coloradokids.org

Want to make a day exploring downtown with your kids? Visit http://bit.ly/GQ1Wlp for additional ideas, including nearby kid-friendly lunch spots.

**UPDATE**

While you're downtown... Who doesn't love bowling?

We were just soundly beaten at bowling by our 2 year old at Lucky Strike Lanes in The Pavilions! For $30, mom, dad and 2 kids bowled for an hour. Then we had french fries and Shirley Temples. Good food, comfy couches, fun bowling, and we were the only people there. It was kind of perfect!

Wednesday

Take a zip line adventure at Mid-Air Adventures! Giant swings, a climbing wall, zip lines... it's a total blast. Even my 3 year old loved it! Who knew my kids were such daredevils? It's a good idea to call ahead and reserve your spot: 303 - 255 - 9477 (ZIPS)

Thursday

Take the boys to Wings Over the Rockies for Space Exploration Day (10-4)! Graduate from Storm Trooper Training, bounce around in the UFO, build and launch different kinds of rockets, and more!

And for the girls?

Nordstrom Rack in Cherry Creek invites you to "Once Upon a Princess Party!" From 1:30-3:00, they'll enchant you with fun crafts at the Castle of Creativity (and everyone gets tiaras) - at 2:00 - Hoorah! The Princess arrives for Story Time and Pictures. Moms, you can shop the fabulous Easter dresses, handbags (Hello, Petunia Picklebottom just arrived!), shoes and more while your little ones are entertained. And they have some pretty fab prize giveaways!

Saturday
Mom, go and get a super relaxing pedicure at the lovely new JC Nail Salon in Northfield, next to Harkin's Theaters. Choose your aromatic oils: chocolate, stress relief, energy, relaxation, immune boost, or mental clarity. Every pedi includes a hot stone massage, and in those comfy recliners, I nearly fell asleep! Support this new business, tell them Liz sent you!